Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Fettuccine is a rich, comforting pasta dish that brings together tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. This restaurant-quality meal is surprisingly easy to make at home, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prepping.
With just 30 minutes of cooking time, you can serve up a bowl of indulgent fettuccine that’s packed with flavor. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so irresistible!
Why This Recipe Works
Bold, Balanced Flavors – The tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes perfectly complements the creamy, cheesy sauce.
Quick & Easy – Ready in 30 minutes, this is a great option for busy nights.
One-Pan Simplicity – You only need one skillet and a pot for the pasta, making cleanup easy.
Versatile & Customizable – Swap the chicken for shrimp, mushrooms, or spinach for a different twist.
What You’ll Need for This Recipe
Ingredients Breakdown:
Fettuccine Pasta – Classic, flat, ribbon-like noodles that soak up the creamy sauce.
Chicken Breasts – Thinly sliced for quick cooking and juicy bites.
Heavy Cream – Creates the rich, velvety sauce.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds depth and umami to the dish.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes – A slightly tangy, chewy contrast to the creamy sauce.
Garlic & Onion – Build a flavorful base.
Dried Basil – Infuses a warm, herbaceous note.
Red Pepper Flakes (Optional) – Adds a touch of heat for spice lovers.
Olive Oil – For sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
Fresh Parsley – A bright, fresh garnish.
How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Fettuccine
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Season the chicken strips with salt and black pepper, then cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Add dried basil and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
Add the cooked fettuccine and mix until evenly combined.
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
Step 5: Serve & Garnish
Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.
Pair with garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Tips + Tricks & More for Recipe Success
Perfecting the Sauce
If the sauce becomes too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
For extra cheesiness, add an extra ¼ cup of Parmesan.
Use low heat when adding the cheese to prevent clumping.
Chicken Variations
Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
Want a seafood twist? Use shrimp or scallops instead!
Making it Lighter
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
Substitute Greek yogurt for a healthier creamy texture.
Spicing It Up
If you love heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add cayenne pepper.
Try stirring in a spoonful of pesto for an herby kick.
Serving Suggestions
Best Side Dishes
Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up extra sauce.
Caesar Salad – A fresh, crisp contrast to the rich pasta.
Roasted Vegetables – Asparagus, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes complement the flavors well.
Bruschetta – A light, refreshing appetizer before this indulgent meal.
Best Wine Pairings
Chardonnay – A buttery, oaked white wine that complements the creamy sauce.
Pinot Grigio – Light and crisp, balancing the richness of the dish.
Sangiovese – A red wine with bright acidity that cuts through the creamy flavors.
Timing Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: 560 kcal per serving
Servings: 4
Final Thoughts
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Fettuccine is a quick and easy meal that feels elegant and indulgent. The creamy Parmesan sauce, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and juicy chicken make for an unforgettable combination. Whether you’re making this for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to impress!
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